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Red Wings trying to end woes at home

Mar 5, 2008 - 1:24 PM St Louis (29-27-10) at Detroit (43-18-6) 7:30 pm EST

DETROIT (Ticker) - The Detroit Red Wings look to put an end to their longest home losing streak in 22 years on Wednesday when they host the St. Louis Blues.

Detroit, which snapped a four-game skid overall with a 4-2 win over Buffalo on Sunday, has lost four straight at home for the first time since February 3 - March 8, 1986.

The Red Wings lead the league with 92 points, but are just 2-8-2 in their last 12 games and have seen their lead over Dallas (41-23-5) in the Western Conference cut to five points.

In fairness, the Red Wings have been plagued by numerous injuries along the blue line. But that could change on this homestand.

Defenseman Niklas Kronwall had a pair of assists on Sunday in his second game back after missing 13 games with a clavicle injury.

More good news is on the way as defenseman Brian Rafalski (groin) was activated from injured reserve on Tuesday. Also, captain Nicklas Lidstrom could return during the homestand after missing five games with a sprained MCL.

Still, the Red Wings' slide at home has been surprising considering their 21 wins here rank second in the league to Anaheim (22).

They will look to get back on track against the Blues, who have had their own struggles recently. Ryan Johnson scored late in the third period to help St. Louis snap a six-game skid with a 3-2 win over Los Angeles on Tuesday.

Keith Tkachuk and Andy McDonald also scored for the Blues, who managed just four goals during their losing streak.